LAHORE: PPP Chairman Bilawal Bhutto Zardari on Tuesday suggested that provinces should be allowed to collect taxes directly, saying this would strengthen the economy and help the federal government overcome financial challenges. Speaking to journalists after meeting the business community at the Federation of Pakistan Chamber of Commerce and Industry (FPCCI), Bilawal highlighted independent reports of Rs3 trillion in tax leakage and stressed the need for decentralisation.
“Wherever needed, our party is ready to support district-wise economic uplift plans. The difference between our approach and others is clear: we believe in decentralisation, not centralisation,” he said, addressing the concerns of high tax rates while reaffirming PPP’s commitment to boosting revenue through respect for taxpayers.
Recalling pre-18th Amendment tax collection, Bilawal noted Sindh’s record-breaking provincial collections post-devolution and suggested provinces keep any revenue exceeding federal targets, which would relieve Centre’s fiscal pressure.
Bilawal also appreciated FPCCI’s proposals, pledged PPP cooperation via policy advisory boards, and praised the GSP+ status for raising exports by 80% to Europe. He emphasised the business community’s role in strengthening the economy, noted PPP’s foundational work for CPEC, and reaffirmed support for Chinese partnerships and export promotion.
On provincial reforms, Bilawal urged the government to first implement existing consensus on forming new provinces, especially South Punjab, before discussing the creation of additional provinces. He stressed reconciliation as essential for national stability and criticized political polarization, highlighting the need for dialogue among parties, including PTI and PML-N, to avoid systemic stress.
